I try NOT to use sunscreen. Yup, I said it. If I can, I avoid sunscreen. Wanna know why? 

So often, we’re reminded that the sun is a cause of cancer. But, what isn’t talked about enough is the harmful ingredients in some sunscreens. We’ve learned in recent years that some ingredients in sunscreens are known carcinogens and are harming our health more than the actual sun. I also want to get Vitamin D, and recent research shows that early morning sunlight helps to boost vitamin D, which helps boost immune function. 

If you go out in the sun enough, you do need to wear sunscreen, and I do sometimes, but not always. It’s important to know when to wear sunscreen and what’s in the sunscreen.  It’s also important to have a bag full of tricks when you decide not to use sunscreen. I know not using sunscreen goes against EVERYTHING we’ve been told… but hear me out. I’m not saying never… just, not always. 

I work with the sun… I wear hats, I wear lightweight clothing, I wear sunglasses, and I change where I sit and if I face the sun depending on the time of day and the amount of time I’m going to be spending in the sun. I want to get a healthy amount of sun but I don’t want to get too much. 

When I do use sunscreen, I buy non-nano zinc based products. Remember the days of white noses at the beach when we were growing up? (Ah, the nostalgia.)  Well, you can get that same protection without the white nose, and NONE of the toxic carcinogens! I can’t tell you how easy it is to forget you have sunscreen on with this non-nano zinc based sunscreen from Crunchi. * It goes on as smooth as lotion, no tacky, white paste like other zinc based products. The ingredients in Sunlight Body SPF will actually help nourish your skin. You will be amazed at how much you love this sunscreen!! And, if you need something for everyday face protection, we have a facial SPF also!  

 

Why is non-nano Zinc Oxide such a good option for sun protection? 

Non-nano Zinc Oxide sits on top of the skin and reflects UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are the aging rays of the sun. UVB rays are the ones that burn your skin. Zinc oxide protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Studies have reported that zinc oxide nanoparticles in sunscreen products can penetrate the skin, posing a risk of biological damage to humans and entering waterways, potentially harming marine life. 

Here are a few simple rules to follow when you spend time in the sun:

• • Apply and reapply sunscreen if you’re out in the sun all day. Crunchi’s Sunlight has 80 minutes of waterproof protection. 
  • USE A NON-TOXIC SUNSCREEN, non-nano Zinc based products are my fave. (see link above 😉 ) 
  • Put on a hat with a big brim.
  • Children under 6 months are not supposed to use sunscreen, so, keep them in the shade or use a full body swimsuit.
  • Avoid the sun between 10a-2p (this is when the sun is the strongest). 
  • Cover up with clothing.
  • Keep in mind that young children put everything in their mouth, so don’t put sunscreen on their hands.
  • Remember that even under an umbrella at the beach or pool, the sun reflects off the sand and the water, you still need to apply and reapply.
  • If you take medication, make sure this doesn’t cause increased sensitivity to the sun. (i.e. tetracycline, retinol).
  • Stay hydrated!

So, with those little tidbits of information, I hope you find creative ways to get outside to enjoy the sun, and stay healthy. If you want help finding other toxin free skincare products, please email me at katiepinktolley@gmail.com. Helping friends decrease their toxic load is what I do best!! 😊

As always,  Enjoy the Journey, friends! 

 

*affiliate link.